Party Piece

As soon as the curtain went up we knew we were in for an enjoyable afternoon.  The scenery was an excellent interpretation of two back gardens with washing being hung out in one which would probably cause problems with the next door neighbours who were going to hold a really super party in their garden (or so they thought!).  Although starting off as a crime writer, Richard Harris eventually turned to comedy for his offerings which have been hugely enjoyed over the years.

So there we were – on a Saturday afternoon in the 1990’s looking forward to some great comedy and we were not disappointed.  Michael and Roma Smethurst were preparing for their party to which a good many friends had been invited.   It was to be a fancy dress party with the women dressed as men and the men dressed as women.  As Mike Farrall was indisposed, Clive Hale took over the part of Michael Smethurst with only two weeks notice and did a grand  job.  His costume, complete with blonde wig was stunning – I’m not quite sure that was the right word but he was a sight to behold!  Katharine Drew played his wife Roma who spent a lot of time answering the phone as many of their “friends” kept ringing up to cancel – maybe they had been to their parties before!  We were truly entertained by the antics of this couple – great acting from both of them.

Let’s go next door to where Mrs Hinson lives – she is a redoubtable old lady (the one who was hanging out the washing) and she certainly doesn’t suffer fools gladly!  She wasn’t keen on answering the phone or the door and whenever the doorbell or the phone rang next door she would shout “Door!” or “Phone!” as the case may be.  I can see myself doing that!  This part was played superbly by Alison Avann – a great character actress.  Her son David turns up to see his mother and you can’t help feeling sorry for him with a mother like that!  Another great characterisation by Mike Cotton.  Mrs Hinson obviously doesn’t like her daughter in law, Jennifer, who was played by Christine Holford in great style.

Peter Coleman as Toby and Lauren Hickman Smith as Sandy completed the cast, both giving excellent comedic acting.

This play was certainly a very good choice for the Hailsham Festival and I’m sure all the other audiences had just as much fun as we did watching the antics of these very disparate next door neighbours.

Those on stage, as always, had great support from all those working on the many jobs that have to be carried out to make performances such as this a success and congratulations to all involved, especially to Director Diane Harris for bringing it altogether.

The front of house team dealt with the ever welcome interval refreshments.  The cake is always very good!

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